Fears Long Waits For Ophthalmology Appointments Will Have Long Lasting Effects For Patients

Clare people are being warned that long waiting lists for ophthalmology procedures could be leading to irreversible damage to their eyesight.

Ophthalmology currently has the longest waiting list for outpatients’ appointments and inpatient or day case surgery in the country.

Figures from The National Treatment Purchase Fund show that 33,818 patients are currently waiting for an outpatient appointment with almost 3900 waiting for more than 18 months.

Kilrush based Optometrist Julie Neylon says that quick treatment is important for particular conditions.